Direct confrontation intensifies
Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated into open military confrontation, with both countries launching missile strikes over the past three days.
The conflict marks one of the most direct and sustained exchanges between the two regional powers in recent history.
Israel initiates with targeted strikes
The current escalation began on Friday when Israel carried out a series of long-range airstrikes on Iranian military sites. The Israeli Defence Forces said the strikes targeted missile production facilities and senior Iranian commanders involved in military operations against Israel. Among those confirmed killed were Mohammad Kazemi, head of the Revolutionary Guard’s intelligence service, and two other senior officials.
Israel stated that the strikes were pre-emptive and designed to neutralise strategic threats. Iranian state media described the attacks as “aggression” and “a deliberate act of war,” vowing retaliation.
Iran launches missile barrage
In response, Iran fired a wave of ballistic missiles at Israeli cities on Sunday. One struck a road in Haifa, injuring several civilians, while others caused structural damage in southern towns. Israel’s Iron Dome and other defence systems were deployed to intercept the majority of the projectiles.
High civilian toll in Iran
Iran’s health ministry reported that more than 220 people have died and over 1,200 have been injured since Israeli airstrikes began. Officials claim many of those killed were civilians, including women and children. Israel insists its strikes have been focused solely on military infrastructure and command centres.
Leaders exchange warnings
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran would respond with “a more painful and powerful blow” if Israeli attacks continued. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, meanwhile, warned that Iran could face consequences it “cannot even imagine.” Iranian military leaders have urged civilians in Israel to evacuate areas near military targets, raising concerns of further escalation.
Calls for diplomatic de-escalation
International leaders have urged both countries to de-escalate. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated Israel’s right to defend itself, while also labelling Iran as a major source of regional instability. The G7 and EU foreign ministers are set to meet this week to discuss coordinated diplomatic efforts.
Regional concerns rise
Neighbouring states have expressed alarm at the growing crisis. Gulf nations have warned that a prolonged conflict could destabilise the wider Middle East. Several countries have closed their airspace, disrupting travel, and regional stock markets have experienced sharp drops as tensions continue to rise.
